Carbon monoxide poisoning claims

Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless and potentially dangerous gas that can cause serious illness when inhaled. Exposure can occur in a variety of workplace environments, particularly where fuel-burning equipment, generators, heating systems or vehicles are used.

Because carbon monoxide cannot be seen, smelt or tasted, people may not immediately realise they have been exposed. In some cases, symptoms can develop gradually, making it difficult to identify the cause without medical investigation.

If carbon monoxide poisoning occurs because appropriate safety measures were not in place, it may be possible to bring a personal injury claim.

How carbon monoxide exposure happens at work

Carbon monoxide can build up when fuel-burning appliances or equipment are not operating safely or where ventilation is inadequate.

Common causes include:

• Faulty boilers, heaters or furnaces
• Poorly maintained gas appliances
• Use of generators in enclosed spaces
• Inadequate ventilation in work areas
• Vehicle exhaust fumes in confined environments
• Failure to inspect or maintain equipment properly

Exposure can occur in a range of workplaces, including construction sites, warehouses, garages, agricultural settings, factories and commercial premises.

Employers' responsibilities

Employers have a duty to take reasonable steps to protect workers from foreseeable risks to their health and safety.

This may include:

• Maintaining and servicing equipment properly
• Ensuring adequate ventilation
• Carrying out appropriate risk assessments
• Monitoring working environments where carbon monoxide risks may arise
• Providing suitable information, training and supervision
• Responding appropriately where risks are identified

Where these responsibilities are not met and exposure occurs, liability may arise.

Symptoms and effects of carbon monoxide poisoning

The effects of carbon monoxide exposure can vary depending on the level and duration of exposure.

Symptoms may include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Loss of consciousness in severe cases

Significant exposure can result in serious long-term health problems and may require ongoing medical treatment.

Because symptoms can resemble other illnesses, carbon monoxide poisoning is not always identified immediately.

Claiming compensation for carbon monoxide poisoning

If carbon monoxide poisoning occurred because workplace risks were not properly managed, compensation may be available.

A claim may take into account:

• The severity of the illness
• Medical treatment and recovery
• Loss of earnings
• The impact on daily life
• Any ongoing health effects

Each claim depends on the circumstances of the exposure and the safety measures that were in place at the time.

How our workplace injury solicitors can help

Our Personal Injury team can assist with carbon monoxide poisoning claims by:

• Reviewing how the exposure occurred
• Assessing whether appropriate safety measures were in place
• Considering who may be responsible
• Gathering workplace and medical evidence
• Explaining funding options, including no win no fee arrangements and Legal Expenses Insurance, where available

Every case is considered on its own facts and the specific circumstances involved.

What happens first?

The first step is a confidential, no-obligation conversation.

We will listen to what has happened, explain whether a claim may be possible and discuss the options available.

There is no pressure to proceed, and any discussion can take place at a pace that feels right for you.

Time limits for carbon monoxide poisoning claims

Personal injury claims are subject to time limits. In most cases, a claim must be started within three years of the exposure or the date you became aware that your illness was linked to carbon monoxide poisoning.

Early consideration can help ensure that important workplace records, maintenance documentation and medical evidence are preserved.

Carbon monoxide poisoning claims – frequently asked questions

Can I claim compensation for carbon monoxide poisoning at work?

A claim may be possible where the exposure was caused by unsafe working conditions or a failure to manage foreseeable risks appropriately.

What if I did not realise I had been exposed immediately?

Carbon monoxide poisoning is not always identified straight away. Symptoms can develop gradually and may initially be mistaken for other illnesses.

Which workplaces are most at risk of carbon monoxide exposure?

Exposure can occur in many environments, particularly where fuel-burning appliances, generators, heating systems or vehicles are used.

Who is responsible for preventing carbon monoxide poisoning at work?

Responsibility will depend on who was responsible for maintaining equipment, managing the workplace and ensuring appropriate safety measures were in place.

Can carbon monoxide poisoning cause long-term health problems?

In some cases, significant exposure can result in ongoing symptoms or longer-term health complications.

Speak to us about a carbon monoxide poisoning claim

If you have suffered carbon monoxide poisoning at work, we understand how concerning and disruptive this can be.

An initial conversation can help you understand your position and what options may be available, with no obligation to proceed.

Contact our Personal Injury team to discuss a carbon monoxide poisoning claim in confidence.

Contact our Personal Injury team at Clarkson Wright & Jakes on 01689 887887 or at cwj@cwj.co.uk to discuss an electric shock or electrocution claim. 

Alternatively, you can complete our Personal Injury Calculator here.